Return to Revenue.ie

ROS FAQ - ROS Security

       

   Select the question you require

		How do we protect the ROS system against abuse ?
		What is a Digital Certificate?
		What measures are in place to ensure the confidentiality of the material filed on ROS?
		What specific features are used to ensure the security of the system?

		How do we protect the ROS system against abuse ?
		ROS provides secure communications between the customer and Revenue. We in Revenue would like to assure our customers that access to ROS, the confidentiality and integrity of data, and the authentication of the sender are secure. In addition, the Revenue computer system is protected from attack via the Internet and customers' computer systems are protected from any attack introduced via ROS. We achieve this through the use of Digital Certificates for authentication purposes and digitally signing data and strong encryption to secure data being transmitted.
		What is a Digital Certificate?
		A Digital Certificate is a guarantee by the Certification Authority (the body issuing the certificates) that the private key, which is contained in the certificate and is used for authentication and signing purposes can only be used by the person to whom it belongs. In the case of ROS Digital Certificates, the Certificate Authority which issues the certificates is the Revenue Commissioners.
		What measures are in place to ensure the confidentiality of the material filed on ROS?
		We go to great lengths to protect the confidentiality of customer information. All transmissions we receive are encrypted, and only we can decrypt the data. Before we accept a return for processing, it has to meet strict identification standards and specifications. If it does not, we do not accept the form. It is important to note that if you receive persistent messages asking you to accept/trust applets issued by ROS you should contact our Information Desk (1890 201106) for assistance.
		What specific features are used to ensure the security of the system?
		We have set up a Public Key Infrastructure for Revenue. This has been done in association with LanCommunication/RSA Security, one of the foremost companies in the World dealing with the area of securing transactions on the Internet. A core feature of the system will be the use of Digital Certificates with which you will digitally sign correspondence for electronic transmission to ROS. Your Digital Certificate will contain your public key. You will also have a private key associated with the public key on your own computer. Only you will have access to this private key.

Skip Navigation Footer Revenue Home | FAQs | Help | Accessibility

Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Certificate Policy Statement | Certification Practice Statement

Eolas as Gaeilge